Gun Talk Triggers Surge In Pistol Permits

Talk of gun bans and new laws triggers an influx of gun sales and concealed weapons permits.

Just in the last three weeks, 3,029 people have applied for a pistol permit in South Dakota, bringing the total number of active permits in the state to 65,754. And law enforcement expects that number to keep growing.

To obtain a concealed pistol permit, you must apply in person at your local sheriff's office. That's what Sandra Bonham is doing. She already owns a gun, now she just wants to make sure she's legal.

"In case I carry it around in my car and go to the shooting range, I'm at least covered, a lawful citizen," Bonham said.

The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office says they've never seen anything like it. As of 3 p.m. Wednesday afternoon, they had already received 45 applications just on Wednesday.